How live-in care makes hospital discharge less stressful

Hospital discharge is a stressful process for both patients and family members, but is vital to the health and well-being of your loved one during recovery.

Here we take a look at why successful hospital discharge is so important, and how live-in care can support this process.

Why is getting hospital discharge right so important?

Returning home from hospital can cause a lot of discomfort for your loved one if the right care isn't in place.

There are two common barriers to a successful hospital discharge:

Decisions about care arrangements made while a person is in hospital are likely to be rushed and uninformed. If you can, plan ahead where possible.

Many elderly people who leave hospital are put into the unfamiliar surroundings of a care facility. Sometimes this is against their will or without their understanding and can cause stress both physically and mentally.

Live-in care can combat both of these by overseeing the process on your behalf and allowing your loved one to stay in the comfort of their own home.

What will a live-in carer do?

A live-in carer will help your loved one through both hospital discharge and their recovery period. Here are just a few ways they will help:

Undertake household maintenance

As most trips to the hospital are unexpected, the property may need to be cleaned in preparation for your loved one's return. A live-in carer will ensure the home is clean, tidy and in full working order (e.g. hot water/heating turned on, and plenty of electricity if on a meter).

Oversee mobility adjustments

Many homes are not equipped with mobility equipment or laid out in an appropriate way for someone with mobility problems.

The live-in carer will make changes, taking on any recommendations made by medical professionals, that will enable your loved one's recovery.

Ensure there's enough food and medication

After a stay in hospital, it is unlikely that there will be an adequate supply of food or medication in the house.

Focus on reablement and recovery

The hospital discharge doesn't stop when your loved one arrives home. A live-in carer will support them through their recovery and help them regain lost skills (such as getting dressed, mobilising, and adapting to a routine).

This is all done in their own home, which promotes positivity and a sense of security and familiarity that cannot be achieved in a care facility. This also means they are close to their existing support network, helping to prevent feelings of loneliness.

Find out how live-in care can help make hospital discharge a less stressful and more rewarding experience for your loved one, helping them regain a sense of normality as quickly as possible.

The Good Care Group approach

This August, The Good Care Group is launching the 'Supported Discharge Service'. Comprising a multidisciplinary team, this service ensures a safe and nurturing approach to hospital discharge.

Our team will respond to a hospital admission within 24–48 hours and bring your loved one safely home by thoroughly planning the approach to discharge and discussing aftercare with their healthcare professional.